Blue Jackets Military Night November 10, 2011

In recognition of Veterans Day, the Columbus Blue Jackets will pay tribute to those who have served or are currently serving in the nation’s armed forces during Military Appreciation Night on Thursday, November 10 when the Jackets host the Chicago Blackhawks at Nationwide Arena.

Before the game, the 338th U.S. Army Band will entertain fans on the concourse. In-game activities include a special recognition of all current and former military personnel in attendance as well as an official swearing-in ceremony for a group of Army recruits. In addition, six local children from the 684th ASMC Family Readiness Group who have a currently deployed parent will be treated to rides on the Zamboni® and several active duty members representing the USO
of Central Ohio will have the opportunity to watch pre-game warm-ups from the penalty boxes.

Tonight’s celebration of those who have served or are currently serving in the nation’s armed forces is highlighted by a pre-game ceremony during which retired U.S. Army Major Joseph Haugen will be presented with the Secretary of Defense Medal for the Defense of Freedom. Brigadier General Stephen E. Markovich of the Ohio Air National Guard will present the medal.

As a show of support and gratitude for all active and retired service members, Blue Jackets players will wear camouflage-style jerseys during pre-game warm-ups. The complete set of authentic worn jerseys will be individually autographed by the respective players and available for bidding in a silent auction that will begin that night and run through the end of the second intermission of the Saturday, Nov. 12 game vs. Winnipeg. The signed jerseys will be displayed
on the arena’s Bud Light Terrace. All jerseys will have a starting bid of $150 with proceeds benefiting The Ohio State University’s Student Veterans Affairs Fund which awards scholarships for OSU student veterans.

On this night, the participating charity for the Blue Jackets Foundation’s 50/50 Raffle will be Operation Buckeye, a local organization that sends troops boxes containing food and snacks, personal hygiene items, reading materials and messages of support. Near the end of the game, one lucky winner will win 50% of the total raffle sales with the other half supporting Operation Buckeye. Tickets priced at $1 will be sold at multiple locations throughout the arena.